Which memory type loses its contents when power is removed?

Which memory type loses its contents when power is removed?

• A. RAM
• B. ROM
• C. Hard drive
• D. Cache

Answer: (A)

Memory that loses its contents when power is removed is volatile memory. RAM is the primary volatile memory used for running programs and storing active data; it holds information only while the computer is powered. When you shut down, the electricity stops, and the data in RAM is cleared, giving you a clean slate on the next boot. Non-volatile memory like ROM and hard drives retains data without power, which is why they stay populated after shutdown. Cache is also volatile and disappears when power is removed, but RAM represents the general category of volatile main memory that fits the question’s focus.

Memory that loses its contents when power is removed is volatile memory. RAM is the primary volatile memory used for running programs and storing active data; it holds information only while the computer is powered. When you shut down, the electricity stops, and the data in RAM is cleared, giving you a clean slate on the next boot. Non-volatile memory like ROM and hard drives retains data without power, which is why they stay populated after shutdown. Cache is also volatile and disappears when power is removed, but RAM represents the general category of volatile main memory that fits the question’s focus.